Unite in talks over 430 threatened jobs at Thomas Cook

Unite negotiators begin talks today to save as many jobs as possible, following Thomas Cook’s announcement that about 430 jobs are under threat – 16% of the workforce.

The union represents about 400 engineers and 1,000 cabin crew at the holiday firm, which is the second-largest flight charter operator in the UK.

The company announced on Tuesday it also intends to sell off four of its UK aircraft, as part of a plan to clear its £1.3bn debt.

Unite regional officer, Helen Osgood said: “Unite, which is the biggest union represented at Thomas Cook, will enter these talks with the company in Manchester with the goal of saving as many jobs as possible.

“At present, details of the threatened job losses are sketchy – we are not even sure which airports that Thomas Cook flies from will be worst hit.

“It is very disappointing that this announcement has come at a time when the company’s new chief executive officer, Harriet Green has just been allotted 6.2 million share options, which is currently, we believe, worth more than £1m.”

Thomas Cook says it wants to reduce its UK fleet from 35 to 31 aircraft in a move which will have an impact on operational staff, engineers and office-based support.

The long-established travel company says it flew 6.8m passengers to holiday destinations last year.